SRINAGAR: In the lead-up to India’s Republic Day on January 26, Indian forces have escalated restrictions in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir, subjecting the local population to harassment under the pretext of security measures. Kashmiris living across the Line of Control and globally observe the day as a black day, highlighting their grievances against Indian rule.
Heavy deployments of Indian troops, paramilitary forces, and Special Operation Group personnel have been stationed in Srinagar and other towns within the territory, aiming to prevent anti-India protest demonstrations. Security checkpoints, equipped with sliding barricades, have been established at entry points to the Kashmir valley and along the Srinagar-Jammu highway.
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The region is witnessing cordon and search operations, house raids, frisking, random searches, and identity card checks conducted by Indian police and paramilitary personnel. Such measures are causing disruptions and inconveniences to the daily lives of the local population.
Youth in the region are being regularly summoned to police stations and Tehsildar offices to sign and verify their presence, asserting that they are not involved in any anti-India or pro-freedom activities. This preemptive action is part of the broader efforts to curb dissent and control any potential unrest during the Republic Day observances.
On January 26, the people of the occupied territory traditionally observe a complete shutdown, responding to the call of the All Parties Hurriyet Conference, marking the day as a Black Day in protest against Indian rule and the denial of their right to self-determination.
